Myths and controversies

Be cautious of any information obtained from unmonitored sources.

The Internet and the media offer all kinds of information about cancer and our health. Some of it is helpful, some of it is not quite right – and some of it is dangerously wrong. It’s important to be aware of health risks, but you need to be sure you’re getting information from sources you can trust.

Here are some questions we’re often asked – and the truth from the experts.

Various raw foods

Is an alkaline diet better for me?

Person choosing between deodorant bottles on a shelf

Do antiperspirants cause breast cancer?

Bra hanging on a hanger

Does wearing a bra increase my risk of breast cancer?

Three people wearing medical face masks

Is cancer contagious?

Water being poured from a plastic bottle into a glass

Should I be concerned if disposable water bottles freeze or overheat?

Various raw foods

Do some foods prevent or cure cancer?

A cancer patient being embraced by another person

Is my cancer risk higher if many people around me have it?

A runner helping another injured runner

Can a physical blow or injury cause cancer?

Person putting a container of food into a microwave

Should I put plastic containers in the microwave?

Patient being examined by a dentist

Do root canals cause cancer?

A rope fraying with one thread left intact

Does stress cause cancer?

Sugar being poured from a teaspoon

What's the link between sugar and cancer?

Doctors performing surgery in a hospital operating room

Does surgery cause cancer to spread?

What have you heard?

Have you heard a rumour you’re concerned about – or a “fact” that doesn’t seem right?

Call us toll-free at 1-888-939-3333.

Or write us. We will reply by email or phone if you leave us your details. If we are not able to reach you by phone, we will leave a voicemail message.